the three estates

• Традиционный термин, обозначающий три социальных класса или политические силы в средневековом европейском обществе: духовенство (первое сословие), дворянство (второе сословие) и простолюдины (третье сословие). В современном контексте также может относиться к трём ветвям власти или к СМИ, законодательной и судебной системам.

A traditional term referring to the three social classes or political powers in medieval European society: the clergy (First Estate), the nobility (Second Estate), and the commoners (Third Estate). In modern contexts, it can also refer to the three branches of government or the media, legislature, and judiciary.

1. Historical Social ClassesC1formalbritish

   The three traditional orders or classes in medieval European society: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners.

   Три сословия

   • In medieval France, the three estates were the clergy, the nobility, and the third estate.
   • The Estates-General was a meeting of the three estates.
   • The three estates had different privileges and responsibilities.

2. Modern Political ConceptC1formal

   In modern contexts, sometimes used to refer to the three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial.

   Три ветви власти

   • The three estates of government ensure a system of checks and balances.
   • The concept of the three estates is fundamental to modern democracy.
   • Each of the three estates has distinct powers and functions.